The Ford Explorer has an impressive history spanning over three decades and six generations. The latest generation was introduced in 2020, and for the 2022 model year, the crossover received several updates. Notably, the Explorer ST now comes with standard rear-wheel drive, and a new trim level called ST-Line was introduced. As for the 2023 model year, the Explorer remains largely unchanged from its predecessor. However, the upcoming 2024 Ford Explorer is set to receive a mid-cycle refresh, including redesigned exterior styling, an updated interior, and potential performance enhancements. Prototypes of the 2024 Explorer, including the Explorer ST and Explorer Timberline, are already undergoing testing. Let’s delve into what we can expect from the forthcoming 2024 Explorer.Â
Production of the 2024 Ford Explorer is expected to take place at the Ford Chicago Assembly Plant, which has been responsible for manufacturing all sixth-generation models. The production is scheduled to commence in late 2023, and the crossover will be available for purchase shortly thereafter as a 2024 model year vehicle. It’s worth noting that the Chinese variant of the Ford Explorer has already received its mid-cycle refresh, so it’s likely that the North American variant will follow suit with similar updates.Â
On the exterior, the 2024 Ford Explorer will showcase restyled front fascias that will vary based on the chosen trim level. Expect to see new headlights, grilles, and bumper treatments. The rear end will also undergo a revamp, featuring new taillights that extend into the liftgate. Additionally, certain trims may receive new wheel designs.Â
Inside the cabin, the 2024 Ford Explorer will boast a refreshed cockpit, complete with new infotainment screens. Lower-tiered trims will come with a smaller screen, while higher-tiered trims will feature a wider, horizontally oriented screen. These screens will likely be powered by Google-based infotainment systems. Other technological enhancements may include the addition of more USB ports for second- and third-row passengers. Moreover, the 2024 Explorer might adopt 5G connectivity in place of the existing 4G features. Additionally, Ford’s advanced hands-free driver assistance system, Ford BlueCruise, could be introduced to the Explorer for the 2024 model year.Â
The 2024 Ford Explorer is expected to continue utilizing the Ford CD6 platform, which has been the foundation for every sixth-generation Explorer thus far. Under the hood, the upcoming crossover will likely retain the current model’s engine lineup. This includes the turbocharged 2.3L I4 EcoBoost engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, the 3.3L V6 Hybrid engine generating 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque combined, and the turbocharged 3.0L V6 EcoBoost engine delivering 365 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer ST, King Ranch, and Platinum trims currently utilize the same 3.0L V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. However, there is a possibility that the 2024 Ford Explorer ST might receive a slight power boost from the same engine configuration. Additionally, it’s worth considering that Ford could introduce new or revised powertrains in the future.Â
